In their Sunday matchup against the Houston Texans, the New England Patriots managed to mount a late rally, however, it was not enough to overcome the deficit, as they lost 28-22 to Houston.
While the formerly 10-1 Patriots were likely the statistical favorites heading into the game, they struggled throughout the game both offensively and defensively at times. The defense struggled to contain Texans’ quarterback, Deshaun Watson, who amassed four touchdowns in the victory. Meanwhile, the offense struggled to get going and Tom Brady’s growing frustration was obvious as the game went on.
Texans Made More Big Plays When Needed
While it may sound a bit obvious, the Texans won this game in large part because they just made more big plays and converted on more chances than the Patriots. Watson, especially, dealt major blows to the Patriots defense, throwing for 234 yards and connecting for three touchdowns to three different receivers.
Going even further than that, Watson caught a touchdown pass on a complicated play that saw three Texans touch the ball before it even got to Watson. Those types of plays are often momentum building for teams that can successfully use them. It is rumored that the play was designed by a group of Watson, wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, and running back Duke Johnson.
The Texans came into this matchup with a game plan intended to exploit the weaknesses of a Patriots’ defense that has been stalwart as of late. Conversely, they had a lot of players simply step up and make big plays when called upon: Johnson broke away from linebacker Kyle Van Noy multiple times for catches that included a touchdown, and Hopkins beat cornerback Stephon Gilmore on a slant route three separate times throughout the game.
Tom Brady Grew Noticeably More Frustrated with The Offense
Over the past few weeks, Brady has made comments or shown his frustration with the Patriots’ offense on multiple occasions, even after games that they have won. This all came to a boil on Sunday night as multiple cameras constantly captured Brady coming off of the field looking like a bomb ready to explode.
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The offense struggled all night, and it seems as though most of Brady’s rage was directed at his receivers, whom he could be seen berating on the sidelines; Many have attested that it appeared Phillip Dorsett was the target for that ire throughout the night.
That being said, the Patriots are still 10-2 overall and will have a chance to get back on track when they host the 8-4 Kansas City Chiefs next Sunday.
